Sugar snap peas do need to climb. As climbing plants, they have a natural tendency to reach upward and attach themselves to a support structure. Without proper support, they can become tangled, flop over on the ground, and not yield as well.
When the first tendrils of the sugar snap peas start to appear, it is crucial to provide them with a support system. Tendrils are thin, spiraling structures that peas use to anchor themselves onto a support. They are an early indication that the peas are ready to start climbing.
To ensure successful growth and productivity, it is important to choose the right type of support for your sugar snap peas. The supports should be sturdy enough to bear the weight of a mature crop, as peas can become quite heavy when fully grown.
There are several options for providing support to sugar snap peas:
1. Trellis: A trellis is a popular support structure for peas. It can be made of wood, metal, or even bamboo poles. The trellis should be at least 5-6 feet tall to accommodate the height of the mature plants. Attach the trellis securely to the ground to prevent it from toppling over.
2. Netting: Another option is to use netting, such as pea netting or garden netting. These are lightweight mesh materials that can be stretched between two poles or stakes. The netting provides a vertical surface for the peas to climb on and helps keep them organized.
3. Teepees or A-Frames: Creating teepees or A-frame structures using bamboo poles or other sturdy materials can also provide excellent support for sugar snap peas. Simply tie the poles together at the top to form a cone or A-shape and allow the peas to climb up the structure.
4. Fences or walls: If you have a garden fence or a sturdy wall, you can train the peas to climb along these surfaces. Install horizontal wires or strings at regular intervals to guide the peas as they grow upward.
When providing support, make sure to set it up before the peas start to climb. Trying to install support structures once the peas have already started growing can be challenging and may cause damage to the plants.
It is also important to regularly monitor the growth of the sugar snap peas and guide the tendrils onto the support structures. Gently wrap the tendrils around the support or use soft twine or plant ties to secure them in place. Avoid using materials that can cut into the plants or restrict their growth.
Sugar snap peas do need support to climb and grow effectively. Providing sturdy and appropriate support structures, such as trellises, netting, teepees, or fences, will ensure that the peas grow upright, avoid tangling, and produce a bountiful harvest.
